Respirator Fit Testing

All respirators that rely on a tight-fitting mask-to-face seal need to be annually checked with either qualitative or quantitative methods to determine whether the mask provides an acceptable fit to a wearer.

Qualitative

The QUALITATIVEfit test procedures rely on a subjective sensation (taste, irritation, smell) of the respirator wearer to a particular test agent.

Also called the odor test or irritant test.

If the odor or irritation is noticed, the unit must be refitted or another one used.

The test is only as accurate as the user's sense of smell or sensitivity to irritation.

NOTE: You must provide the mask you will actually be using on the job. The fit test is designed to check to see that the mask you wear is functioning properly. Not using the correct mask could result in an improperly fitting mask.

STS does not perform the necessary medical evaluation. However, per OSHA 1910.134, this must be done prior to your actual fit testing to determine if you can safely wear a mask.

ATTENTION FIREFIGHTERS AND DEPARTMENTS

According to the new NFPA 1500-20, all fire departments are required to ensure that the facepiece seal capability shall be verified by Quantitative Fit Testing on an annual basis and whenever new types of RPE or facepieces are issued. (7.12.1 Fit Testing.)

The protection factor produced shall be at least 500 for negative-pressure facepieces for the person to pass the fitting test with that make of full facepiece. (7.12.6)

Prior to your testing session, the following is required:

Company must inform Safety Training Services, Inc. of make and model of mask being used for fit testing prior to instructor arriving on site.

It is highly recommended that each employee have their own assigned mask and bring it with them the day of testing. If this is not possible, masks in sizes small, medium, and large must be be made available.

To help facilitate testing (especially if multiple employees are being tested), employees are asked to arrive promptly at their scheduled time.

Note regarding masks: If company is unable to provide masks for fit testing, please inform us and we will do what we can to provide them for you. Be advised, however, that this may not always be possible as we do not stock every make/model of mask.

If you wish to review the OSHA standard for Respiratory Protection in its entirety, you may do so here: